Is it tough for you to get a good night’s sleep, especially now that it’s the summertime? You’re not alone—many people suffer from sleep disruption due to conditions like sleep apnea, but there are actually several other factors that can cause you to miss out on much-needed rest, and many of them are specific to the summer months. Here’s more from your sleep dentist about how the summertime can actually affect the quality of your rest, along with some tips for helping you get back to bed.
How Can the Summertime Affect the Quality of My Rest?
Aside from sleep apnea, which can occur year-round anyway, there are several potential causes for sleep disruption during the summer months, including:
- Warmer temperatures both inside and outdoors.
- Seasonal allergies (from pollen, grass, leaves, etc.).
- Pet dandruff.
- Longer days and more daylight entering your bedroom.
- Eating meals later in the day.
- Sleeping materials that aren’t cool, comfortable, or breathable (put away the heavy winter quilt).
- Summer vacation, jet lag, or other plans that disrupt your sleep schedule.
Tips for Getting a Better Summer Night’s Sleep
If your body isn’t able to get the rest it needs, problems can arise—you’re actually at risk for some pretty serious health concerns including fatigue, stress, hypertension, heart disease, and even diabetes in some cases. Not to mention, you won’t be able to enjoy your summer if you’re feeling sleepy all the time! That said, here are some tips for getting a better summer night’s sleep:
- Establish a bedtime routine – You should aim to go to bed around the same time every night and limit the number of distractions that occur around then—even if you’re on vacation!
- Keep your body cool – Heat and high humidity can make trying to sleep quite miserable; make sure that cool air is circulating throughout your bedroom. An optimal temperature to try to maintain is 60 to 67 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Sleep on breathable materials – Consider sheets and pillows that are made of natural fibers. It also sometimes helps to sleep with your feet outside of the covers.
- Avoid late night snacking, drinking, and smoking – Anything that you consume throughout the day can keep you up at night! Avoid cigarettes and late-night sweets and treats.
- Seek sleep apnea treatment if necessary – You can receive a sleep apnea diagnosis and accompanying treatment, including options like CPAP machines and oral appliances.
Knowing what can influence your ability to fall asleep at night is vital for getting your body’s sleeping habits back on track. If you’re concerned about how sleep apnea might be influencing your sleep this summer and have addressed other concerns of sleep disruption, don’t hesitate to contact your sleep dentist.
About the Practice
Cornerstone Dental proudly serves patients and families in the Fargo, ND area under the leadership of Dr. Stacy Goodwill and Dr. Jessica Majidian. Together they combine several decades of experience to provide patients with an exceptional level of dental care. To schedule an appointment, please visit their website or reach out by phone: (701) 237-3583.